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Versatile Rottino making impression on Acta

Versatile Rottino making impression on Acta

CLEVELAND -- Vinny Rottino is not a typical September callup. The Indians' utility man has spent a decade in the Minor Leagues and is long past the days of potentially being labeled as a prospect.

That is not stopping Cleveland from taking a close look at Rottino.

"We like him. That's why he's here," Indians manager Manny Acta said. "Some people might second-guess a guy his age being up here in September and all that, but 32 is not old, and we like what he did in Triple-A."

Rottino showed what he brings to the table in Thursday's 4-3 extra-innings win over the Twins. With the game tied and a runner on first in the ninth, Chris Herrmann put a charge into the ball to right. Rottino made a leaping catch at the wall to preserve the tie and help send the game to extras.

Rottino also made an impact on Wednesday. In the third inning, he drew a walk, stole second base, moved to third on a groundout to shortstop and scored on a base hit. Rottino later doubled and scored in the eighth, a half-inning after making a great sliding catch in left to rob Joe Mauer of a hit.

"We like what he brings," Acta said. "He's very versatile and plays hard. He does all those little things that help you win games -- things you can't teach."

Rottino has played all nine positions throughout his professional career, but he is mostly viewed as an option for first base and the corner-outfield spots. He can also work as a catcher.

The Mets lost Rottino to Cleveland via waivers on June 27, and he responded by hitting .291 with five home runs, 18 doubles and 41 RBIs in 60 games for Triple-A Columbus. Over 96 Triple-A games between Buffalo (Mets) and Columbus, Rottino hit .297 with nine homers, 28 doubles and 66 RBIs.

"When he was put on waivers in New York," Acta said, "he had some good comments made about him, too. We like what we see. He can do some things."